ORMOC CITY— Authorities are investigating the death of a 55-year-old laborer whose body was found in an early state of decomposition in Barangay Erenas, Victoria, Northern Samar, on Friday morning, February 13, 2026.
The victim, identified as alias “Art,” a single laborer and resident of the barangay, was last seen on February 10 when he returned home. The body was discovered around 10:30 a.m. by a local resident, alias “Luke,” who immediately reported the incident to the Victoria Municipal Police Station.
Police officers responded promptly and confirmed the lifeless body upon arrival. Initial assessments indicated that the victim had been deceased for several days, though the exact cause of death remains undetermined.
While the victim’s family requested that no charges be filed, believing the death resulted from natural causes or an existing illness, the Victoria police continue to conduct a thorough investigation to rule out foul play.
Authorities said the case is still under follow-up investigation, including verification of the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death. No injuries or external marks were reported at the scene, and the investigation aims to provide clarity on the cause of death.
(ROBERT DEJON)
